Anorexia

Table of Contents

Other names

Anorexia nervosa
Restrictive eating disorder
Atypical anorexia nervosa
Starvation syndrome
Self-starvation

Synopsis

Anorexia refers to anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and severe restriction of food intake leading to significantly low body weight. It often begins during adolescence but can occur at any age and affects both women and men. Anorexia has one of the highest mortality rates among psychiatric disorders, due to complications from starvation, organ failure, or suicide.

There are two primary subtypes:

  • Restricting type: Weight loss achieved through extreme dieting, fasting, or excessive exercise.

  • Binge-eating/purging type: Involves episodes of binge eating or purging through vomiting, laxatives, or diuretics.

Despite being underweight, individuals with anorexia often perceive themselves as overweight. Emotional distress, perfectionism, low self-esteem, and trauma often underlie the disorder. Medical complications can be life-threatening, affecting the heart, bones, hormones, and other organs.

Types:

  • Restricting type anorexia nervosa: Weight loss through strict dieting and/or excessive exercise.

  • Binge-eating/purging type anorexia nervosa: Involves cycles of bingeing and purging behaviors.

  • Atypical anorexia nervosa: Meets all psychological criteria for anorexia but without significant weight loss.

Common Causes (Risk Factors):

  • Genetics: Family history of eating disorders, depression, or anxiety.

  • Psychological factors: Low self-esteem, perfectionism, trauma, obsessive-compulsive traits.

  • Cultural and social pressures: Societal ideals emphasizing thinness, social media influences.

  • Stressful life events: Bullying, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, academic or athletic pressures.

  • Neurochemical imbalances: Serotonin and dopamine dysfunction in the brain may contribute.

More Severe Causes (Complications):

  • Heart problems: Bradycardia (slow heart rate), arrhythmias, heart failure.

  • Bone loss (osteopenia/osteoporosis): Due to low estrogen and nutrient deficiencies.

  • Electrolyte imbalances: Can lead to seizures, muscle cramps, or cardiac arrest.

  • Organ failure: Liver, kidney, or heart function declines with prolonged malnutrition.

  • Infertility or menstrual irregularities: Amenorrhea from hormonal disruption.

  • Mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide.

  • Weakened immune system: Increased susceptibility to infections.

When to See a Doctor or Mental Health Specialist:

  • Persistent fear of weight gain despite being underweight

  • Distorted body image or extreme dieting behaviors

  • Missed menstrual periods (amenorrhea)

  • Extreme weight loss or refusal to maintain a healthy weight

  • Compulsive exercise, bingeing, or purging behaviors

  • Symptoms of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts

  • Nutritional deficiencies or physical complications (dizziness, hair loss, fatigue)

Natural Remedies

Nutrient-Dense Small Meals: Frequent, small, balanced meals help rebuild nutritional stores without overwhelming digestion. Include healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fiber.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA, EPA): Support brain health, reduce inflammation, and help manage mood disorders associated with anorexia. Found in fish oil, flaxseed, chia seeds.

B Vitamins (Especially B1, B6, B12): Support energy metabolism, nerve function, and mood regulation. Supplementation may be required during refeeding.

Magnesium Supplementation: Supports muscle function, reduces anxiety, and eases digestive discomfort during recovery. Found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, or supplements.

Probiotics: Rebuild gut flora, improve digestion, and support nutrient absorption after prolonged malnutrition. Include fermented foods or supplements.

Zinc: Deficiency is common in anorexia and contributes to appetite suppression and immune dysfunction. Supplement under supervision.

Vitamin D and Calcium: Support bone health and hormone balance, essential for recovery from bone loss (osteopenia/osteoporosis). Ensure adequate intake.

Adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola): Support stress resilience, emotional balance, and hormonal recovery. Helpful for anxiety and fatigue during recovery.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Help manage anxiety, improve body awareness, and reduce negative thought patterns. Practice regularly.

Gentle Yoga or Restorative Exercise: Promotes body awareness, reduces stress, and supports emotional well-being without overexertion. Avoid intense exercise during early recovery.